Barcelona in summer is a radiant, bustling city… but also a hot one. As the temperatures rise, one drink emerges as the secret hero of long days and strolls through the city center: horchata. Refreshing, light and just sweet enough to bring you back to life, horchata is a Mediterranean ritual steeped in history.
But… what exactly is horchata de chufa?
If you’ve never tried it before, here’s the scoop: horchata is a plant-based drink typical of the Mediterranean, made from chufa—a small tuber with a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It’s ground, mixed with ice-cold water, and sweetened just enough.
While in Barcelona it’s mostly enjoyed during the summer, its roots go way back. Legend has it that horchata was already being made in the Arab period, and since then, the recipe has been passed down through generations to become the classic summer refreshment you’ll find on café terraces, at ice cream shops, and in display windows as soon as the heat kicks in.
A fun fact? Despite its creamy texture, horchata contains no milk at all—it’s 100% plant-based. And beyond being refreshing, it’s also good for you. Among its benefits: it aids digestion, helps regulate cholesterol, supports heart health, and is rich in antioxidants.
From Hotel Pulitzer Barcelona, right in the heart of the city, we invite you to discover some of the best spots to sip horchata in town. Perfect for a sweet pause between museums or the final touch to an afternoon stroll. Because yes—in Barcelona, summer is something you drink.
Let’s dive in!
La Campana (and an irresistible plan at Hotel Pulitzer Barcelona)
📍Carrer de la Princesa, 36
📍Also on the rooftop of Hotel Pulitzer, every weekend in July
Located in the Gothic Quarter since 1890, La Campana is one of the most authentic and beloved horchaterías in Barcelona. They make their horchata fresh every day using chufa from Valencia, staying true to the traditional recipe and that fresh, natural, perfectly balanced flavor that wins you over from the very first sip.
And if you’d rather not stray far from the city center, we’ve got good news: every weekend in July, you can enjoy La Campana’s artisanal horchata at La Terraza, the rooftop of Hotel Pulitzer Barcelona.
The experience? Head up to the rooftop at sunset, let the live music set the mood, and sip on an ice-cold horchata while the city slowly unwinds around you.
Sirvent, a timeless classic in Sant Antoni
📍Carrer del Parlament, 56
Just a 15-minute walk from the Pulitzer, Sirvent is the definition of tradition. Founded in 1920, it continues to craft horchata the old-fashioned way—using chufa with D.O. Valencia certification and no unnecessary additives. And the line out the door doesn’t lie: their horchata is the kind that becomes instantly addictive. You can also pair it with fartons, slushies, or even turrón ice cream.
If it’s your first time: Try it the traditional way—with an ice-cold horchata and a fartón. These soft, elongated pastries are lightly sweet and perfect for dipping—made to soak up every last drop of horchata. It may sound simple, but once you try it, you’ll understand why people leave with bottles to go.
Orxateria Verdú, the most authentic horchata in the Eixample
📍Carrer de Bruc, 126
In the Right Eixample, just a few blocks from the hotel, this family-run horchatería has become a go-to spot for those in search of the real deal—horchata without frills or shortcuts. They make it fresh daily, using high-quality chufa, and you can taste it in every sip. It’s one of those hidden gems where the product speaks for itself and the calm, welcoming atmosphere makes you want to linger.
To enjoy it like a local: Grab your horchata to go and wander aimlessly through the quiet streets of the Eixample. There’s nothing more Barcelonian than an unhurried afternoon stroll with something refreshing in hand—and no need to check the time.
La Valenciana, a hidden gem in the Eixample
📍Carrer d’Aragó, 321
Just a short stroll from Hotel Pulitzer Barcelona, La Valenciana embodies everything a great horchatería should be: tradition, quality ingredients, and tons of flavor. A true classic among classics. Founded in 1910 by a family from Jijona, it’s one of Barcelona’s true horchata institutions. They prepare their horchata with care, fresh every day, and serve it with fartons in a space that smells like summer the moment you walk in.
Our tip: If you’re in the mood for something a little different, try their almond horchata. It’s smooth, light, and a perfect twist if you’re looking to mix things up while still staying in classic territory.
Bodevici, organic horchata in Gràcia
📍Carrer de Torrijos, 21
If you're in the mood to explore Gràcia, hop on the metro or a bike from the hotel and make your way to Bodevici. Right in the heart of the neighborhood, this spot offers a more contemporary take on horchata: organic, with no added sugar (if that’s your preference), and with variations made from hazelnut or almond. Perfect if you’re after something lighter without sacrificing flavor.
A perfect plan: Try their horchata sorbet and enjoy it as you wander through the little squares of Gràcia. It’s the ideal combo for a hot summer afternoon.
Planelles Donat, tradition in the Gothic Quarter
📍Portal de l’Àngel, 25
Just a few minutes’ walk from Hotel Pulitzer Barcelona—right by the cathedral and close to Plaça Catalunya—this beloved shop has been delighting locals and visitors for generations. Known for its turrón and traditional holiday sweets, it’s also a summer favorite thanks to its artisanal horchata, made with both chufa and almond. If you like it thick and ice-cold, this is your spot.
Craving something different? Ask for the cubanito: scoops of chocolate ice cream served in a glass of horchata. It’s a fun and original twist—perfect for cooling off in a totally new way.
